Larry Harris Provides T.J. Ford Update

“We’re happy to announce that T.J.’s bruise has improved significantly since his last MRI three months ago,” said Harris. “The bruise has healed to the point where T.J. can resume standard basketball activities, including running, shooting and light weight-work.”

At this point, doctors have not yet cleared Ford for any physical contact. He will be available to begin basketball-type activities as soon as Saturday, April 16. Harris anticipates Ford undergoing another MRI in a few months, after he has had ample time to practice and work out.

“I know it’s been a long road for T.J. up to this point and I know how excited he is about the news he received today,” Harris added. “The news couldn’t come at a better time for us as we near the end of our season and look forward to the 2005-06 season.”

“We’re certainly excited about the news,” said Head Coach Terry Porter. “It’ll be great to see T.J doing basketball related activities again and getting himself to the point where he can help this team move forward. He’s worked hard and this is great news for both him and for us.”

Ford sustained the injury in the fourth period of a home game against Minnesota on February 24, 2004, and had cervical spine surgery in May of 2004, performed by Dr. Robert Watkins at the Los Angeles Spine Surgery Institute in Los Angeles, California. Harris said, “We’d also like to thank Dr. Watkins and his staff for their due diligence throughout this process.”

“I can’t tell you how happy I am right now,” said T.J. Ford. “I know that I still have a long road ahead of me, but the news I got today is a huge first step. I’m looking forward to taking some shots with my teammates around on Saturday.”

“And I want to thank the Bucks organization, my family and my fans for all of their support,” Ford added. “They’ve been a big part of my recovery process.”